Disclaimer: I do not own Inuyasha or his characters, and have no right to it except as a long time fan.
Soul Cleansing
Chapter Four: Soul Cleansing
To the outside world Sesshomaru's pack would not be seen for two weeks except for the brief few hours that Sesshomaru went to see Totosai and run his errands. To the packs perception they would be in the utopia for nearly a year. However, once they were back in the normal flow of time they began to travel again, the miko and demon lord looking for jewel shards and continuing their courtship.
Kagome visited her family a few times, letting her mother know about her courtship with Sesshomaru during her first visit back. She had not been happy about that considering it had only been a few weeks to her, but after Kagome showed her mother her courting mark and explained that they had been in a place where almost a year had passed for them she felt considerably better. Still not happy that she would not be able to meet the demon lord before anything happened, but still better then she had when Kagome first mentioned her courtship. She and Shippo had also made sure to visit Keade. During their first visit they learned how their former pack reacted to their disappearance and what Inuyasha had revealed.
-/-/-/-sc-/-/-/-
The duo could tell when they first stepped into the hut that the elder priestess was surprised at their new looks. Shippo was a little taller then he used to be. Still small enough for Kagome to carry, but too big to ride on her shoulder. He wore white hakama, a teal haori with white leaves scattered on it with a white under haori, and his fur vest. His tail was still visible but he no longer had fox paws for feet. He could now control his youki enough to transform them into humanoid feet and now wore little black boots. Even his red hair was a little longer, stretching to his neck from his high ponytail tied with a teal ribbon instead of a bow.
Kagome had grown a little taller as well but it wasn't noticeable unless you were paying attention or had not seen her in a long time. She wore cream colored hakama and a short kimono with a blue flower petal design flowing along the fabric, a blue and black obi securing it closed, and black boots on her feet with her thick hair raining much longer down her back.
"The two of ye look very well. I am glad ye both are doing well since last I saw ye." Keade said kindly as she continued to gaze at them. She couldn't help noticing how happy and content they looked.
They thanked her as they settled down and made themselves comfortable.
"So have you seen the others? Do you know how they took our disappearance?" Kagome asked as she subtly checked to make sure her clothing was settled in place, remembering the etiquette scrolls she had studied.
The old priestess informed Kagome that the Inu half demon tried to make it sound like they had one of their usual arguments and she left, taking Shippo with her, but Sango and Miroku told the full truth of what happened along with the fact that they stood by and did nothing because they were used to seeing such things in relationships. They felt it just wasn't their place to interfere.
"When I asked Inuyasha why he had hit ye, he answered that ye made him angry and he did not like the wolf demon touching ye and verbally claiming ye. He also did not approve of the fact that ye did not try to stop him from making such a claim." Keade explained.
"When I asked him why he cared since I believed he had chosen my sister, he replied that he wanted the both of ye, and because ye knew he would go off to see Kikyou he took that as acceptance and that ye loved him so much ye were willing to share him." She concluded and watched the young priestess close her eyes and shake her head.
"After listening to their excuses and reasons I decided to keep my silence about seeing the two of ye." Keade stated before informing them that Inuyasha was unable to travel through the well, and that Miroku was unable to find anything that would bar him. Their theory was that she might be dead, but they didn't want to think such, and the fact that Kikyou said nothing about having all her soul made them feel better about her possibly being alive.
-/-/-/-sc-/-/-/-
Kagome sighed as she remembered. She was surprised at Inuyasha's reaction and words but at the same time she wasn't. She couldn't believe that he would hit her because of Kouga's actions and words, or her inability to stop Kouga from making claims on her. She had told him 'no' numerous times. What did Inuyasha want?! Did he want her to try and purify him? Was that his idea of putting a stop to Kouga?
Well she was not willing to hurt him or kill him to stop him. He had not hurt her, or tried to force his claim on her, so she did not deem violence the answer.
As for Sango and Miroku she was happy that they told the truth, but she was disappointed with the excuses they gave. She had actually seen the both of them react more to random villagers they had come across that were being abused then they did when Inuyasha hit her. And she didn't understand how they thought it wasn't their place to step in and help her or stop Inuyasha. As much pain as it had caused her she had never deluded herself into thinking they were in a relationship, and if she knew it then Sango and Miroku should have known it as well with how long they had been around them.
Kagome sighed and switched her thoughts to the progress of her courtship with Sesshomaru. The development of her feelings, getting to know each other, and the attraction that they both felt that had gradually intensified over their stay in the utopia.
She came to understand that her mate-to-be was a quiet, controlled, and highly dangerous demon. She had realized since she began travelling with him that he was more powerful then he let on, and that if he had really wanted Inuyasha dead then he would be dead despite Inuyasha's few successes in catching him by surprise. And beneath the cold exterior he presented to the world he was very passionate and affectionate.
No one could see it because he didn't speak often enough and he didn't show it, but when he did choose to display it, it was a thing of beauty. She had enjoyed passionate kisses and sensual touches the likes of which she had only read in romance novels. She had affection bestowed upon her on a daily bases in one form or another. A hug here, a nuzzle there, cuddling during the night, a simple kiss here or there, a lick of her courting mark. All things she learned were specific behavior of dog demons with their chosen intended or mate.
She now found herself feeling love for both the Inu brothers. She had in fact fallen in love with the demon lord. Her genuine love for Sesshomaru was intense and strong whereas her love for Inuyasha was just as intense but reluctant and persistent.
Kagome couldn't help comparing the two brothers with the way her feelings were and noticing the many differences.
The first thing that came to mind was their looks. They had similar coloring with their hair and eyes but where Inuyasha's hair was thick and white and his eyes were wide and amber, Sesshomaru's hair was silky and straight and the color of moonlight while his eyes were narrow and golden. They dressed in hakama and haori but where Inuyasha's look was neat yet wild, Sesshomaru's clothing were neat and clean.
The next thing to come to mind was their level of maturity. One was mature and the other was immature. Inuyasha was wild, didn't know what he wanted, and was never happy with what he had. He was almost like a child. Sesshomaru on the other hand was an adult plain and simple. He was calm, collected, and knew what he wanted.
How the brothers treated her was a major difference to her. One treated her as if she was his maid and wife in one, and the other treated her with respect and consideration. Inuyasha always wanted her to do everything for him when he wanted it and how he wanted it. Always yelling at her to get his point across and ordering her around. Sesshomaru treated her like a person, like he would want to be treated. He didn't yell at her or raise his voice at all. He didn't wake her with his foot as if he was afraid she was diseased. He either let her sleep or he shook her awake, and she didn't have to argue with him to study or to visit her family.
Then there was how each Inu male treated others, those around them. Sesshomaru took care of all the needs of his pack and made sure they were all healthy and content, while Inuyasha only hunted when there wasn't an easy source for them to get food and ran his pack ragged. Any other required needs they had to handle themselves or do without.
This brought Kagome into the differences of their morals. Sesshomaru was all about honor. She had known he was an honorable demon long before he expressed his wish to court her, even when she had thought he was a cold heartless being she still knew that he was honest. Inuyasha, however, was one who seemed to have no problem misleading everyone. She had learned that the hard way. His going back and forth between her and Kikyou, saying one thing to her and doing another when he thought she wasn't around or wouldn't know, and promising to protect her then turning around and hurting her.
Their fighting ability was another major difference between the half-brothers. She had known that their levels were different but it wasn't until after she had the chance to see Sesshomaru fight and even to train with him that she realized how much and why he was the better fighter. Inuyasha always relied on the Tetsusiaga since he got it and nothing else. He occasionally used his blades of blood but only when he was injured enough to draw a lot of blood, and when all else failed he used his claws. Always jumping in wildly, without thought, and without a plan. Sesshomaru used different abilities and weapons for different situations and foes. He was always thinking, strategizing and entering fights with a ready plan.
And though she would never say so to others she noticed the difference in their intelligence. Sesshomaru was highly educated and made it his business to learn more, which was something she enjoyed very much. Inuyasha…was not highly educated. That was not all his fault but she knew he made no effort to change that. Either way when it came to having meaningful conversations the elder brother was definitely loads better.
Still, even though she loved them both she was reminded every time she looked at the demon lord or thought of him or when he showed her affection, that she was in love with him when her heart started racing and a happy smile slipped onto her lips.
With those thoughts in mind she turned to her mate-to-be.
"When will we mate?" Kagome asked curiously, being direct with her question as she knew he liked.
"We cannot mate until your soul is complete and you are free of the taint, until your soul is free of the half-breed." Sesshomaru answered. "However, I will explain what will occur so you will be prepared." He added, not wanting her to be confused when the time came.
"The bond we will create will involve sharing our memories with each other, which will only help us know and understand each other better even with all we know of each other at this point." He stated quietly as he wondered how she felt about that fact. He himself didn't have a problem with sharing his memories with Kagome. He chose her and knew she could handle what she saw, and they would be together forever so it would only be a good thing. Not to mention the experience would mean less talking for him.
"You will gain markings similar to my own. That is something that only occurs when one mate does not have any. You will also share my lifespan, which means immortality as long as we do not get ourselves killed. That fact is a secret of the family, which only I and my mother know. It only works for full demons of my family so it would not apply to the half-breed." He explained as he watched her eyes widen at his words.
"During the mating I will inject you with my youki and poison. This will begin the process of what I mentioned previously as well as make it so you will no longer be harmed by my poison." He concluded as he continued to watch her, taking in her numerous expressions.
Kagome sighed as she considered all she had just learned about her upcoming mating. She didn't mind sharing her memories for the most part. It would help Sesshomaru understand her better, to learn what type of environment and society she grew up in and how it had influenced her.
He would see how Inuyasha had treated her since she met him. She wasn't sure how she felt about that. On one hand she thought it would be good for him to understand in case some problems came up in their relationship. Then he would know where it possibly came from and why she reacted the way she did. On the other hand she wasn't sure she was comfortable with him seeing her treatment, seeing what she had willingly put up with. Just the thought of it was embarrassing and humiliating.
As for the markings she knew she wouldn't mind gaining marking like his since she had always found those fascinating on demons.
The lifespan was something Kagome wasn't sure what she felt about. She was happy that she would live to see her family again but she would outlive them. Her mother and grandfather she knew she would have most likely outlived anyway. Her brother was younger and may have outlived her. He would continue to age while she continued to look young, and what if he got married and had a family? Would they know of her or would she have to stay away from them? Only seeing her brother in secret or keeping in contact by phone, letters, and email?
Kagome shelved those thoughts and moved on to the last fact Sesshomaru had given her. Knowing he would be injecting his poison into her was a scary thought, especially since she remembered her last up close call with his poison acid. The only thing that had saved her was the Tetsusiaga that time. This time she wondered what was to stop her from being melted from the inside out. Not to mention she wasn't looking forward to how being injected with his poison would feel. She could only imagine how painful it would be.
She was just glad she would have time to think about it, and prepare her mind if nothing else.
~o~o~o~o~
Sesshomaru stood gazing around the perfect area he had chosen for his mating as he erected a barrier around it. The barrier would protect them while they were vulnerable viewing each other's memories, because they would occur while they were asleep, like dreams, over a period of time. He also wanted it to be safe and ready when he brought her there, so he would be sure to come back before their mating to leave supplies they would need.
When he was satisfied with the barrier he left to return to his pack, but on his way he picked up the scent of graveyard soil, clay and bones. The dead priestess was in the area and he immediately changed direction to head toward that abomination.
He thought this was a very good happenstance since his miko would have no idea what was happening until it was done. She didn't want to know when he would kill the dead woman unless the older priestess happened to show herself to them. Then if that had happened she wouldn't have minded if he took the opportunity but cautioned him that he would have to finish her off quickly, because she would feel compelled to protect the dead woman. Otherwise, if she didn't know then she couldn't try and protect the clay construct. The only thing his miko asked was to gather the remains to be returned to the elder priestess back in the village of Edo.
Once the dead woman was in view Sesshomaru approached her silently. She didn't know he was there until his green poison whip flashed out, killing her soul collectors. He did not want the creatures to help her get away. He watched with cold eyes as she quickly notched an arrow in her bow and pointed at him.
"What do you want demon?" He heard her ask, hearing the slight nervousness in her tone.
"I am here to free what does not belong to you." He deigned to answer before he silently lifted his right hand, the tips of his clawed fingers glowing.
She narrowed her eyes and fired her arrow at him but he dodged it easily with his natural swiftness, and especially after months of practice dodging his miko's quick solid purity arrows, and flicked his wrist- sending his whip sailing to circle around her cold body. He tightened it and pulled, watching as her body crumbled and fell to pieces, releasing all the stolen souls within her.
Sesshomaru watched one soul remain, after the others floated up into the sky, then speed off in the direction of his miko. He gathered the now very dead priestess' remains and rushed back in his orb form to his mate-to-be in case there were issues with the return of her soul that she needed help handling.
He arrived, appearing out of his orb, to see his miko on her knees, her arms wrapped around herself, glowing and gasping for breath. The other members of his pack looking confused.
~o~o~o~o~
Kagome sat quietly talking to Rin about different types of herbal methods to ease pain when a ball of light appeared out of nowhere and slammed into her, knocking her flat on her back.
She could hear Rin and Shippo calling out to her but she could not answer. She was too disoriented and confused by the jumble of random memories flooding her mind. She managed to roll to her knees but that was as far as she got as she tried to make sense of the images flashing before her closed eyes.
She could make out images of Keade, Inuyasha, Naraku, soul collectors, and Sesshomaru- who was clearer then all the rest, and she suddenly understood what was happening to her. The rest of her soul had returned to her.
The images started to slow and she began to understand what she had seen. Kikyou had done some good since she had been brought back to her half-life, but she had done bad things as well and the good did not outweigh them either. Some things Kagome had guessed at about the now completely dead woman had been confirmed, while other things she had not known about and couldn't understand why the woman had even done them.
The memories confirmed that Kikyou really had wanted to take Inuyasha to hell. She had stopped mentioning it every time she saw their group but it was now clear that the desire had still been as strong as when she was first brought back, even with the knowledge that he was not at fault for her death.
It also turned out that she had wanted Kagome dead. Kikyou wanted her out of the way when it came to Inuyasha and taking him to hell, and she wanted the rest of her soul if only to take it all to hell when she dragged Inuyasha with her. Kagome thought it was ironic. It was Kikyou's wish on the jewel to be with Inuyasha in her next life that had Kagome in the way in the first place, and she had been trying to end that life and take him to hell.
If that was not bad enough Kikyou had also been working with Naraku, and through the memories it was easy to tell that she had not been doing it to eventually lead to the spider half demons end.
Aside from those facts there were other memories that popped out at her. Conversations with Keade where she got advice from her sister or tried to get information about Kagome, conversations and moments with Inuyasha, and studying the bones eater well and trying to figure out how it worked.
Soon the memories began to fade and disappear, but not her knowledge of them or the conclusions she had come to. She imagined it was similar to how people with amnesia felt. They didn't remember doing something but then they were shown videos of them doing it before they had forgot. The knowledge was now there but they still didn't remember actually doing it. The difference for her was that she wasn't supposed to remember them as if they were her memories because they weren't.
Sesshomaru moved to kneel in front of his miko and watched as the glow around her began to fade after a few minutes, and speculated that it indicated her soul had finished settling.
"Are you well?" He asked when she opened her eyes.
"I'm fine. It was just disorienting and confusing at first. I didn't expect to see Kikyou's memories when I got the rest of my soul back." Kagome answered.
Sesshomaru's eyes widened slightly and he couldn't help wondering what she had seen; what the now completely dead priestess had been up to.
"They were flashing so fast at first that all I saw was images of people," She said as they sat down and made themselves comfortable. "but then they began to slow and I could see and understand. Kikyou still wanted to drag Inuyasha to hell even though she had stopped mentioning it, and she wanted me dead so that she could have the rest of my soul and I wouldn't be around to interfere with what she wanted to do with him." She explained.
"But that's not all. Turns out she was working with Naraku. I saw her meeting with him, giving him jewel shards, watching him kill villagers and taking their souls for herself. She did things with him that I really wish I hadn't seen." She continued with a shiver.
"At the end though the memories began to fade and they've disappeared now." She finished.
"The memories have most likely been locked away in your soul where they are supposed to be. After all, you did not remember anything of her life before. That should not change now that your soul is complete." Sesshomaru stated.
Kagome nodded and thought that was reasonable as well as a good thing since there were many things she did not want to remember. She then turned her thoughts to how she could now purify her soul and be free of her unwanted feelings for Inuyasha, but first she needed to relearn her control since the rest of her soul had given her the rest of her powers and thrown her control off slightly. It wasn't by much but it was enough to make controlling her powers for precise instances difficult.
After reassuring the children that she was okay, and explaining to them what happened, the rest of the evening went on as normal with Kagome taking some time before bed to meditate and manipulate her reiki. They stayed at their current camp for a few days so she could focus on controlling her reiki and Sesshomaru could help her and provide silent support.
When Kagome was sure of her control Sesshomaru allowed his pack to begin traveling again. She decided, after all the time she had to consider, to take her grandfather's advice on how to purify her soul, so she and her demon lord were currently searching for the right setting for her.
After speaking to a young monk in a village they were passing Kagome learned of a temple that had a holy body of water that the priestess' used to purify themselves daily. They were informed that there was a barrier that allowed only those with holy powers to pass safely so only she would be able to cross through it. Kagome thanked the monk after he kindly gave her the location and Sesshomaru lead their pack there. They camped out in a secure location that was close to the area of the holy temple, but far enough from the barrier that those inside would not feel threatened.
The next day Sesshomaru escorted Kagome to the barrier. He wrapped his arms around her, careful of his armor, and nibbled and nuzzled at the courting mark on her neck before nuzzling her cheek.
"I will wait here until you come back." He informed her quietly.
Kagome nodded as she returned his affectionate gestures, stretching on her toes to reach his neck and cheek, then walked pass the barrier carrying only her weapons. She calmly stepped down the path before coming to a long set of stairs and yet another path, then one more set of stairs before she reached a large building.
She stepped through the open door and was approached by a passing priestess. She explained that she had learned of the temple's location from a monk when she had enquired about large bodies of pure water. She was told that there was one such pooling of water at that location, and she wondered if it was possible if she could use it. She was informed that she would have to speak to the priestess in charge and was quickly taken to the woman.
After speaking to the head priestess and explaining the basics of her situation Kagome was taken to the holy body of water and given a pure white yukata to wear in the water. The pool of water was crystal clear, as deep as a hot spring, and as wide as a large pond with a small waterfall off to the side.
Once Kagome changed and placed her clothing and weapons off to the side, she lowered herself into the cool yet warm water, dunking her head so she was completely covered before resurfacing and settling on a rock that left her submerged to her shoulders.
She closed her eyes and began to meditate, releasing the barrier she had masking her power, letting the warm blue light flow around her and course through her for hours, lighting up her body and the area in a bright glow. All the while she could sense Sesshomaru and she knew that he had released some of his aura to let her know that he was close, and to provide moral support which she greatly appreciated.
When Kagome felt she was ready she sank deep within herself, traveling to where the representation of her soul resided. She then guided her reiki to the depiction and carefully surrounded it before slowly flooding it with her purity as she meditated on what she was trying to accomplish.
She could not see the taint in her soul but she could feel the emotions she felt for Inuyasha. She knew her soul was cleansed and free when the feelings she had for him abruptly disappeared. Still, she kept it up for a little while longer just to be sure, then she came back to herself, opening her eyes as she masked her power once again before getting out of the water.
Kagome tiredly dried off and dressed herself, then replaced her weapons before heading inside the main temple building.
"Thank you so much for allowing me to use the pure water." She said wearily once she found the priestess in charge.
"We are glad we could help you." The head priestess said sincerely. "Will you not rest here?" She asked respectfully, having felt the immensity of her aura and seeing that night had fallen.
"Oh, no thank you. I need to get going." Kagome said. She wanted to return to Sesshomaru and sleep surrounded by her pack.
"But it is dangerous to travel at night and you are already weakened." The head priestess said worriedly, hoping that would get her to stay.
"Someone is waiting for me just outside the barrier, so I'll be perfectly safe." She said firmly but kindly. She was not about to let this woman talk to her into staying when she knew her mate-to-be was waiting. He had told her he would be, and she could still feel his aura reaching out to her.
"I must go but thank you again. I cannot tell you how much I appreciated that you allowed me to use the water." She continued with a smile, once again thanking the woman. "Goodbye and have a good night." She added and walked out of the building.
Kagome slowly made her way back to Sesshomaru who gathered her gently into his arms when she reached him and began carrying her tired body back to their pack.
She was relaxed and fast asleep within moments.
~o~o~o~o~
Kagome and Sesshomaru had decided it was best to find Kouga and get his jewel shards when Totosai showed up on his dark brown three eyed bull. Kagome was very surprised when she realized he was there for her.
"What do you mean you're here for me?" She asked with wide eyes.
"Sesshomaru-sama commissioned an order for you a few weeks ago using his fangs." Totosai stated as he carefully removed a package from his back and handed it to her. "I am proud to say it is my best work to date." He said as he watched her open the package.
Kagome gently placed the package on the ground as she knelt and untied the cloth. She gasped at the sight of three weapons gleaming at her. Twin long daggers with black diamond pattern hilts, their silver blades shinning at her in the sunlight.
They're wonderful. She thought as she picked them up and swirled them slightly. She set them down and picked up the last weapon. A black diamond pattern hilt that matched the daggers nearly blended into the black sheath. She unsheathed the sword and was greeted by a katana with a navy blue blade. Beautiful. She thought on a whisper as she held the sword the way Sesshomaru had taught her, had drilled into her mind so it was an unconscious action.
"When you wish all you have to do is channel your powers into the blade with the specific intent, and it will split into twin wakizashi blades." Totosai explained and breathed a quiet sigh of relief when he saw the demon lords narrowed eyes relax. He had not forgotten that twin swords had been requested, and knew that he would have been in danger of losing his life had he not said something.
"Thank you. Thank you both so much." Kagome said to Sesshomaru and Totosai. "They are so beautiful and I am so happy to have them." She exclaimed as she removed the practice weapons she carried and placed the blades in her obi. One dagger on her right side and the other dagger and katana on her left.
"The sword is powerful Kagome." Totosai said seriously. "You should practice with it to learn what it can do soon." He stressed to her, but looked to both her and Sesshomaru.
As their pack traveled Kagome took Totosai's advice to heart and practiced with her new weapons, and in the process they learned that her katana had power over time. During their search for Kouga she learned that one of her swords powers was to stop time around an opponent.
-/-/-/-sc-/-/-/-
It was a nice afternoon that found Sesshomaru and Kagome sparing so she could get used to using her powers with her blade, when the katana began to glow in mid swing and a gentle pulse was released from the blade.
Kagome looked to Sesshomaru to ask him what happened only to find him frozen in his position. He stood like a statue of a beautiful warrior, his sword held in front of him in a defensive position, his feet spread just so. Her jaw dropped and she looked at the sword in her hand in amazement before she realized that she had no idea how to undo it or if it could be undone.
What do I do? She asked herself as she walked up to his paused form. Perhaps my powers can do something. She considered worriedly as she looked into his frozen golden eyes. She placed a hand on his warm striped cheek and let her reiki gently flow through her hand, focusing on healing and hoping her attempt would work.
Luckily for them it did. She watched as he slowly blinked and then widened his eyes as he realized she was standing literally right in front of him, touching him and he hadn't any idea how or when she did it.
-/-/-/-sc-/-/-/-
After that Sesshomaru insisted on her mastering that ability, but Kagome could tell that he was impressed and proud that such a power had come from his fang. She decided after that display to name her sword Tōji no aoi Kiba for its color and ability.
Meanwhile, they searched for Kouga in a logical manner, by his aura as well as by the jewel shards he possessed. When they finally found him he wasted no time showing how happy he was to see Kagome.
"Kagome!" Kouga exclaimed happily as he spotted her and moved to stand in front of her. He claimed her hands in his own and smiled charmingly. "How's my beautiful woman?" He asked before plowing ahead without waiting for an answer. "Have you finally left dog-breath to be with me?"
"I'm fine Kouga, and no I haven't left Inuyasha to be with you." Kagome said as she extracted her hands from his. "I've told you before that I am not your woman, and that fact has not changed." She said firmly from her spot standing next to her demon lord.
"Aw, you don't mean that. You deserve so much better then dog-breath. Why don't you let me take care of you?" He asked single-mindedly as Sesshomaru stood there, silently deciding it was time to rip the blinders off the wolf.
"You are a very unobservant cub are you not?" Sesshomaru stated, his cold voice full of disdain. He did not appreciate the young wolf ignoring his presence, and he had no intention of allowing the wolfs unwanted claims to continue. He would not put up with such foolishness.
"The Western Lord." Kouga said as he blinked in surprise, startled that he had been there the whole time. "What are you doing with him?!" He asked his woman in concern and jealousy.
"I am traveling with him now, but more importantly he is courting me." Kagome said clearly, looking him in the eye so he knew she was serious.
"Courting?! Him?! The human hater?!" Kouga said in shock and disbelief.
Kagome frowned but kept her silence. She knew better but it was not her place to go around correcting everyone's perception of Sesshomaru's reputation. He had only told her because she meant something to him, and he wasn't about to go around trying to change anyone's opinions because he didn't care what people thought of him.
"Kagome." Sesshomaru said and when she looked at him he shifted his eyes to her neck and back up to her face.
Kagome nodded, understanding instantly what he wanted without him having to ask. She pulled at the collar of her kimono, showing the mark on the left side of her neck as she let down the barriers that masked her scent and aura.
Kouga's eyes widened as they zeroed in on the outline of a crescent moon on Kagome's neck, then pinched in poorly disguised resignation as he caught the demon lord's scent and sensed a little of what was clearly his power coming from her.
"I understand." He said with a disappointed sigh. "I hope your courtship is successful and full of ardor." He added, clearly giving up at the proof of her involvement with the powerful lord.
"Just like that?! Why didn't you listen long before now?" She asked in disbelief. She didn't want him to change his mind but she was completely bewildered at how easily he gave up when he hadn't done so with all her protests before.
"Because despite dog-breaths possessiveness he never gave you a courting mark so I never had a reason to give up." He said with a shrug. "I always hoped you would eventually see that he wasn't good enough for you and give me a chance." He confessed dejectedly.
"I'm sorry Kouga. But it wasn't just because of Inuyasha. I just didn't see you that way." She said quietly.
"I understand." He responded quietly with a nod, glad that his pack hadn't caught up to him yet to witness his rejection.
"Okay." Kagome said with a light sigh as she belatedly reset the barriers to mask her scent and aura. "Well, we're here for the jewel shards. I wanted to get them now rather than waiting until all the rest of the shards are found." She said, purposely leaving out the fact that they suspected there were no more shards and that Naraku would most likely be after them.
Kouga nodded and bent to pull the shards from his legs. He would miss the power they gave him but he always knew he wouldn't be able to keep them, so he handed them to Kagome and watched them turn a pure pink as soon as they touched her skin.
With that out of the way she bid Kouga goodbye and they sent the children, Jaken, and Ah-Un to Sesshomaru's palace since they knew it would be dangerous for the children when they met Naraku, which was something they were sure would happen soon.
~o~o~o~o~
After discussing the pros and cons they decided to go to Naraku and face him. Sesshomaru tracked him to a human castle he had been using. He had begun to let his scent leak out so they were sure he wanted them to come to him. Something that was confirmed when they found not only Naraku but Kagura and Kanna waiting for them.
They were not worried since they had discussed different plans and strategies but they were appropriately cautious given who they were facing. While Sesshomaru was battling Naraku and keeping him busy Kagome was dealing with Kanna with some interference from Kagura. She knew that Kagura wanted to be free of Naraku's control, but he still had her heart so she had to do as she was told.
Considering that, Kagome was going to view her as the enemy in light of the fact that she knew the woman could get dangerous when Naraku threatened her life or caused her extreme pain. The wind demon threw wind blades at her with a reluctant expression, but Kagome was ready and had a barrier up to block the attacks as she focused on the void child.
She walked closer to Kanna and stretched her arm, thin wires of her reiki shot out of her hand wrapping around the soul sucking mirror. She yanked it from the child's hold before she could try to use it and into her hands. She grabbed one of her long daggers as she set the mirror face down on the ground, and infused her dagger with her power before stabbing it.
Kagome watched the child herself shatter like glass and the pieces crumble to the ground and turn to dust. She replaced her dagger before pulling her katana and turning to Sesshomaru's fight with Naraku. She realized quickly that her demon lord had succeeded in keeping Naraku distracted, to the point that he had not even realized that one of his creations had been destroyed, and she moved to capitalize on that fact.
She manipulated the protective barrier she had around herself to silence all sounds she could possibly make, and moved swiftly yet subtly toward the battle. When she deemed herself close enough she channeled her reiki into her blade and swung it in a move she had practiced extensively with Sesshomaru over the past few days.
The now familiar gentle pulse flared from the blue katana, stopping time around him, and freezing Naraku in surprise. She then used the opportunity to use her reiki to find the link to his heart. Once she found it she used the link to purify his heart, then looked to her mate-to-be and nodded the all clear that the spider could be killed.
Sesshomaru instantly brought up Bakusaiga, the blade glowing green as he channeled his youki into it, and swung it at the frozen spider half demon. A massive wave of youki that resembled green miasma crashed into the half demon, washing over him and dissolving his body completely within moments.
As he sheathed his sword Sesshomaru watched his miko retrieve the chunk of jewel that Naraku held and purify it. He kept his eyes on her as she proceeded to fuse it together with the shards she had, but he kept his senses on Kagura as she landed off her feather and moved closer to them.
"Are you going to kill me now?" Kagura asked the handsome demon lord. She didn't think he would but she wanted to be sure.
"No. You have the freedom you desired. Take it and go." Sesshomaru answered without removing his eyes from his miko as she began to make her way back to him.
"What if I do not wish to go? What if I wished to stay by your side?" She asked softly as she moved a little closer to him, sure he understand the affection in her voice.
"Then you wish in vein." He said bluntly, finally looking to her now that his miko was close. "I am courting the miko and she will soon be my mate. Take your freedom and go live your life."
Kagura narrowed her eyes at his words. She had not known that he was unavailable even if she had known that he had no interest in her. He had told her outright when he understood how she felt, but she had hoped to change his mind. She had always thought that if she lived she could stay with him or in the area he was in and show him that she was the best female for him. She definitely hadn't expected him to turn up with an intended, and a human at that- a priestess no less.
She turned angry eyes on the miko who was standing comfortably near the demon lord. That human had taken what was hers, and she wasn't going to stand for it. She was taking it back. She opened her fan and moved to attack.
Kagome was ready. She had been watching and listening and assumed by the wind demons angry and jealous expressions that such might happen. She put up a barrier against numerous full powered wind blades, and considered how she wanted to deal with Kagura since she knew that it was her responsibility, just as dealing with the males after her was Sesshomaru's.
She remembered the scrolls she had studied on demons and knew that she could not be forgiving in this situation. The nature of demons, female demons in particular, was that if you showed mercy in such a situation then the demon was very likely to come back for another attempt, hoping it would help pave the way for them to get what they wanted.
Kagura obviously wanted Sesshomaru, and by the words she had spoken and the way she was acting she had wanted him for a long time, which meant she was likely to keep making attempts on her life in the hopes that with her out of the way Sesshomaru would be willing to take her.
For as badly as Kagura wants Sesshomaru she clearly doesn't know him if she thinks something like that would ever happen. Kagome thought as she eyed the angry wind witch. She was not going to let this demoness have her way. Before, Kagome would have been willing to think that Kagura was only acting on her feelings and would have stopped when she cooled off, but after studying the scrolls that Sesshomaru had given her and having many night time discussions with him she understood that it was not the case. When a demon was angry and attacking you with deadly intent then they really wanted you dead. There was no cooling off. If they didn't want you dead then they wouldn't attack in such a way.
Kagome stretched her right arm, holding her hand out with her palm forward, and watched Kagura tighten her hold on her fan. She had clearly seen what happened to Kanna and was trying to prepare. Kagome sprayed her with senbon needles created from her reiki, surprising and distracting the wind demoness as she tried to deflect or avoid the thin projectiles. Then she launched a short arrow, hitting Kagura in the chest and sealing her in a paralyzed state.
She watched Kagura crumble to the ground, landing on her back in a boneless heap. She then found and followed the link to her heart as she had with Naraku, and purified it since she knew that the wind demon wouldn't die if her body was destroyed unless her heart was destroyed as well.
She walked over, keeping her protective barrier up, and knelt next to Kagura with a disappointed look in her eyes. She had thought Kagura would be able to live freely if she survived until Naraku was defeated, and she was unhappy with what she had to do. She did not want to kill her but she would to keep herself safe; to keep her from coming after her again.
Kagome lightly placed her hand on Kagura and let her powers flow out and into her body, purifying her over a matter of seconds. She watched the dust settle on the ground before being carried on a breeze. She sighed and looked to Sesshomaru as she got to her feet.
Sesshomaru returned her look as he considered their next move. With Kagome's soul complete and cleansed of the tainted wish, Naraku destroyed, and the jewel in its protectors possession- he thought it was time to finally make Kagome his mate.
He gathered Kagome to him, wrapping his arms around her, careful of his armor, and lifted off on his youki cloud. They traveled through the sky for nearly an hour before reaching their destination. Sesshomaru set down in a small clearing and led his miko to where his barrier was already set up since he knew the mating process would take time to complete. In his opinion he had picked a romantic place in the wilds with cherry blossom trees, a hot spring, and furs to make it as comfortable as possible. He could have taken her to his palace where she would have been more comfortable with silks and furs touching her skin, but he wanted complete privacy and no interruptions. Still, he had made sure to make the area inside his barrier as comfortable as possible.
After they passed through Sesshomaru's barrier Kagome was surprised and awed at the setup. She had wondered where he was taking her, especially when she sensed his power and realized it was a barrier when they came to it. Feeling the warm air as they passed the barrier, seeing the beautiful cherry blossom trees, the blossoms surrounding the hot spring and in the bubbling water, the setup of furs off to the side, and the circle of stones and a small pile of wood next to it off to another side that was clearly for a fire was amazing.
It was beautiful and romantic, and she blushed as she suddenly realized why it was setup and why they were there. She glanced to Sesshomaru and the look in his eyes confirmed her thoughts and she blushed even more, but smiled at what he had done and the effort that had gone into it. It was obvious that he had picked this particular area, brought the furs, and set up the area for the fire and the barrier all in preparation for their mating.
"Relax my little miko. Make yourself comfortable." Sesshomaru said as he placed his hand on her lower back. "I will be back. You will be safe here. Nothing can get through my barrier accept the two of us." He assured her before he left.
Kagome watched him disappear into the trees and then did as he said. She removed her weapons, outer kimono and boots, and settled on the bed of furs as she gazed up at the cherry blossoms and tried not to think about the fact that Sesshomaru would be injecting his poison into her at some point that night.
Sesshomaru was back in minutes and baring fruits to snack on which his miko seemed to be grateful for. He put some on the furs next to her and the rest off to the side out of the way then took off his armor, weapons and boots, and joined her on the furs.
They talked about what happened with Kagura as she snacked on pieces of fruit since it had upset her. That the wind demon had practically thrown her life away, her well-earned freedom, to try and kill her had baffled her so much.
"It was not unexpected." Sesshomaru stated simply. "I knew that she held affection for me. However, I told her when I first learned of this that I was not interested in her, and that fact would not change with time. Not only was she a created being from Naraku, but her personality was not one I was willing to deal with forever. There was also the fact that she did not even know me. Her feelings stemmed from my power, appearance, and perhaps even my confidence."
Kagome nodded her understanding and wondered if Kagura had seen Sesshomaru as her 'knight in shining armor'. Someone who was strong and handsome that could save her from her desperate situation with Naraku. Perhaps even someone who didn't listen to the opinions of others, and who she thought wouldn't care about the fact that she was a created being, and created from Naraku no less.
"Such an instance is very likely to happen again, even after our mating, simply because people will be angry with my choice or that I have chosen someone other than them." Sesshomaru said, wanting that fact to be clear to her.
"I understand, and I'll be ready to deal with them." Kagome said firmly. She had no problem fighting for her place at his side just like she did with Kagura no matter how it made her feel. He was hers and she wouldn't give him up to some unfeeling demoness who only wanted him for his power, title, and wealth.
As night began to fall and it got darker out Sesshomaru got up and made a fire in the area he had prepared. Once it was going strong he turned to Kagome and looked her in the eyes as he began to pull off his haori. He decided it was time to make her his mate. He was done waiting.
He dropped his haori and under haori to the ground and returned to the furs with his miko. He untied her inner kimono with sure fingers and pushed it off her shoulders as she sat quietly, a blush painting her face as she gazed at him and watched his movements. He brought up a hand and traced a single claw down between her breasts, slicing her bra open as he savored the feel of her warm skin. He watched her take the ruined bra off and toss it and her inner kimono aside before looking back at him shyly. He leaned in and nuzzled her cheek and neck as his left arm wrapped around her waist.
"Let me smell you." He stated, making it sound like a question, and she dropped her barrier seemingly without a thought, releasing her scent.
Sesshomaru breathed her scent in deeply before licking her courting mark as his hand moved lazily over her skin.
"Mine." He whispered into her skin, the sound drifting to her ear. "Mine. Now and forever." He decided to add to make sure she knew who she belonged to before leaning further into her, bringing their chests together, and gently forcing her back before claiming her lips in a hungry kiss.
Kagome was completely speechless at the sight of Sesshomaru baring his upper body to her. She had never seen it before and she wondered if that was by design just so he could get the reaction he was from her at this moment seeing as how they had spent nearly a year together.
He looked absolutely glorious. Broad shoulders and thick long arms, smooth muscles just the right size for his body that she knew didn't express his full physical strength, pale skin that made his magenta strips stand out. When he moved closer he looked even better and she just wanted to run her hands over his chest and trace her fingers along his strips, but she was frozen in place, immobilized by his beauty.
She didn't know if she should be embarrassed at herself or irritated but as he settled next to her and began confidently undoing her kimono, she decided that it didn't matter and to just enjoy herself. Even when it was her turn to be topless before him. She would admit to being self-conscious but it definitely helped to see some red begin to bleed into his eyes before he moved to nuzzle her.
Kagome shivered in pleasure at his words. When she first fell down the well such possessive words would have angered her, being the modern female she was, but now she understood the meaning behind the words in reference to demons. She understood that it was about more then just being a possession. It was about being something precious to them; something to be admired, treasured, craved, and for Sesshomaru who was so strong, so intense, so keen on his instincts, it meant even more. She knew she was the most precious person or thing in his life, so much so that he wanted to make her his mate. He wanted her to be the one constant in his life, and since learning that meant literally forever she was appreciative and awed and felt cherished.
Her arms automatically slipped over his shoulders and around his neck as he kissed her. The feel of his lips instantly mobilizing her at the familiarity of his lips against hers. The warmth of the skin of his chest and the hardness and weight against hers was so intoxicating yet comforting. The feel of his clawed hand moving up her side and over her breast, the feel of his claws gently pricking her flesh brought a soft moan from her throat as she stretched her body to try and prolong the feeling.
Sesshomaru purred at the soft sound from his miko and the feel of her soft breast in his hand. He molded the mound of flesh, loving the softness and sounds it brought from his Kagome. He enjoyed the steady rise of heat in her skin and feel of her warm tongue moving against his. Not to mention her taste! He had come to anticipate any chance to enjoy her taste, and now he could taste more then the cavern of her mouth or the plane of her neck.
He broke away from the kiss and slid his mouth across her cheek and down to her neck to suckle and lick at the warm skin, moving his body to cover hers at the same time. Once he had tasted both sides of her neck, paying particular attention to her courting mark, he moved down to lavish her breasts with his attention. His long tongue swirled around her nipples, hardening them more and more with each circuit and pass. He suckled on each one as he imagined their pups would, his clawed hand caressing and kneading the neglected one to keep his miko producing the soft sounds he enjoyed.
Kagome wreathed beneath her demon lord, her arms wrapped around his silky haired head, trying to keep him where he was. His tongue and mouth on her chest felt so good that she didn't even know how to describe it. All she knew was that the pleasure it produced seemed to travel steadily down to her core, making her wreath and squirm all the more at the familiar feeling that was so much more intense then he had ever made her feel before.
Eventually Kagome managed to wiggle her legs out from beneath him, letting his body settle between her legs. The feel of his heated body weight against her core as she moved beneath him had her moaning louder and trying her best to produce more friction to prolong her pleasure. But when he began to move further down her body, away from her breasts, Kagome whimpered in protest, unable to help the sound. She did not want him to stop.
"Do not worry little miko. I will take care of you." Sesshomaru said quietly as he nuzzled her stomach, breathing in the scent of her arousal.
Sesshomaru sat up on his knees, carefully sliding his hands down Kagome's sides until he reached the waist of her thin hakama. He untied her pants and carefully hooked his fingers beneath it and her underwear, pulling them over her hips and down her legs, releasing the full strength of her arousal to his sensitive nose.
He tossed them aside with their other clothes and gazed at his little miko who was completely bare before him for the first time. She was absolutely beautiful. Her skin flushed and glowing in the fire light, and her legs spread for his viewing pleasure. He could tell that she was a bit uncomfortable being so exposed before him but she was being brave about it, something that he adored about her. Even now she could conquer her fear of him. She was not trying to cover herself or looking away, her eyes were focused on his face, on his eyes, knowing that she would find her answers there.
Eyes of complete red and turquoise greeted her; his beast was merged with him, ready to make the miko his mate. Yes, he was ready, more than ready, and she was ready as well judging by the glistening he could clearly see between her thighs. He stood and took off his hakama, watching his little miko's eyes widen at what was revealed. He didn't bother wearing a fundoshi. They were uncomfortable to him and they got in the way. He and his beast growled in pleasure, pleased that she was so stunned at the sight of him.
Kagome lay there staring at the well-endowed demon lord in front of her. He was so big that she wondered if he would even fit inside her, but then he knelt back between her legs bringing his eyes back within her view and all thoughts slipped from her mind. He laid down, sliding along her skin as he covered her body with his, nuzzling against her face as he breathed deeply of her scent.
"My beautiful little miko. All mine." She heard him rumble out in barely recognizable words before sealing his lips to hers.
She wrapped her arms around his shoulders as their tongues rubbed and swirled together fighting for dominance. She moved her hands to caress his ears, knowing they were sensitive and the action would arouse him.
The action caused Sesshomaru to rock his hips against hers, feeling her moist heat against his heated aching length as one of his hands gripped her hip. He rubbed himself against her, using his body to stimulate her instead of his fingers or mouth. Those were things he would use another time, especially using his mouth because he loved the taste of his little miko, all her different tastes. They were delicacies for his tongue that he couldn't wait to sample.
When his miko was once again wreathing and squirming beneath him and he was sure she was ready enough to receive him, he moved to take himself in hand and position his burning length at her opening. He reminded himself that he needed to control himself, because he wanted to bring her to her release first so she could enjoy her first time, and not have it tainted by the memory of the pain his release was going to bring her.
Sesshomaru pushed into her swiftly, breaking her barrier quickly, wanting to get over the moment he would cause her pain. He felt her stiffen and he swallowed her pained whimper since their lips were still connected. He continued kissing her, his tongue swirling and rubbing against hers sensually to try and distract her from her discomfort.
Kagome could not help the whimper that crawled up her throat. The stinging pain between her legs was intense and the extremely full feeling did not help. She had had injuries that were more serious and painful from attacks from demons and just training, but she found this hurt more because it was in such a sensitive place.
However, Sesshomaru's kisses definitely distracted her and allowed her body time to get pass the pain and adjust to his size. She forced herself to focus on the feel of his tongue, his silky hair, his hands caressing up and down her body, the gentle scratching of his claws moving along her skin. Once she was no longer uncomfortable she shifted her hips experimentally, which proved to be enough for her demon lord to start moving his hips.
Back and forth he moved, in and out, in and out, creating a slow rhythm that she was easily able to match. He was being so gentle with her and that was a bit surprising. She didn't think he would be brutal with her or anything, but she thought he would be at least a little rough. Perhaps it was coming and he was just taking it slow...
Either way, she was enjoying the building sensations. The heat suffusing her skin, radiating from deep within her body, and the slowly building tension within her lower stomach and between her thighs where he moved so purposely nearly had her eyes rolling into the back of her head.
Sesshomaru moved his lips to her neck, helping himself control his instincts by lavishing attention on the crescent moon that was her courting mark. He could hear and feel the furious pounding of her heart, hear her quick breaths, feel the blood rushing under her skin beneath his lips, and feel the intense heat of her moist inner walls clinging to him. He felt her wrap her legs around his waist and groaned at the feel of slipping deeper inside her. He began to thrust faster, one of his hands sliding to her thigh to grip at the muscle, the tips of his sharp claws digging into her skin.
He heard her moan her delight and felt one of her hands fist around his hair, scratching at his scalp in her enthusiasm and the other stroke his ear, tracing the edge and stroking the point in a way that nearly broke his control. His miko's moans became louder but to his ears she seemed to be too out of breath to scream or for her tone to get any louder, but he understood that she was getting closer and closer to her peak.
Sesshomaru picked up his pace and hardened his thrusts, and suddenly every part of Kagome's body was clenching around him and she was gasping as if she couldn't get enough air, her back arching, pressing herself against him. Once she relaxed he growled deeply and picked up his pace even more, finally allowing himself to lose control. His hips moved faster then she could keep up, his thrusts became harder, his grip bruising.
Kagome breathed heavily yet gasped at the same time at the feelings coursing through her trembling body. She had never felt so good, never felt so much pleasure in all her life. She had read romance novels, naughty manga, and even heard from her modern friends that sex was great, and even more so with the right person. She had never had an opinion but now she could definitely say that it was absolutely true, and even add that it was better with someone who knew what they were doing.
She held on to him as her demon lord continued his movements and even sped up. She knew they were not done despite her release because he had not achieved his, and there had been no intense pain from creating her mating mark or adding poison to her body. She moaned as the feelings in her body heightened letting her know that she was quickly headed for another release. She was happy that Sesshomaru seemed to be losing his control, she enjoyed the quickened pace and the harder thrusts, the rougher grip. As her thoughts began to slip away all she could think about was that she wanted more of that.
Sesshomaru got to his knees, never stopping his movements, and held Kagome by her sides and pounded into her, his head thrown back in pleasure, his fangs bared to the night. He could feel the tension inside him rising, his body tightening and his youki swelling. He looked back down to his miko's face, his turquoise and red eyes glowing as he took in the sight of her breasts bouncing and swaying around with his movements, her legs still tight around his waist, her head turning from side to side, her mouth open, her eyes shut tight as her moans turned into cries of pleasure.
It is time. He and his beast thought in unison before he leaned down and sank his fangs into the juncture between her neck and shoulder, right on top of her courting mark. His claws dug into the flesh of her sides, piercing her skin as his hips continued their thrusting.
The taste of her blood triggered his release and he stiffened as he began to pour his youki into her through his fangs, and his poison through his fangs, claws and throbbing length inside her.
Kagome arched her back, her body feeling intense pleasure as she was forced into her second release, yet more pain as she began to feel his poison enter her system.
Her mind blanked as the pain intensified from one moment to the next, then suddenly instinct seemed to take control of her body and she felt herself bite into Sesshomaru's neck over his sun shaped courting mark, reiki produced fangs instantly forming to get the job done. Her body steadily began to pour her reiki into him while he was in the process of pouring his youki and poison into her.
Sesshomaru stiffened even more then he already had as he felt pain begin to radiate through his body from his courting mark. He understood that it was happening because of Kagome's reiki, but he didn't understand why she was doing it. Still, he trusted her so he endured it just as she was enduring her pain.
They released each other's neck and collapsed as the pain intensified for both of them. Even with pain coursing through his body Sesshomaru had the presence of mind to pull his length as well as his claws from Kagome's body, making sure to stop the flow of his poison. He moved to lay his pain stiffened body down next to her, keeping in contact with her as she wreathed and cried out in pain.
A few minutes passed and he watched her still and listened as she grew quiet and her breathing began to slow, and knew she had fallen unconscious. The pain began to fade and he managed to pull some of the furs over their bodies as he began to lose consciousness, the remaining process of their mating pulling him into a deep sleep.
Tōji no aoi Kiba: Blue Fang of Time